Retail Sales: Hardware Stores
MRTSSM44413USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
3,910.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.09%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Hardware Stores trend measures monthly sales volumes at hardware stores in the United States. It is a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity in the construction and home improvement sectors.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Retail Sales: Hardware Stores series tracks the total dollar value of retail sales at hardware stores, which sell a wide range of home improvement, construction, and DIY products. This data is used by economists and policymakers to assess the health of the housing and construction markets.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Historical Context
Hardware store sales are an important barometer of consumer confidence and economic conditions, as home improvement projects are discretionary spending items.
Key Facts
- Hardware store sales account for about 2% of total U.S. retail trade.
- Hardware store sales typically rise during periods of economic growth and housing market strength.
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to a spike in hardware store sales as consumers took on more home improvement projects.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Hardware Stores trend measures the monthly sales volume at hardware stores in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Hardware store sales are an important indicator of consumer spending and the health of the construction and home improvement sectors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Hardware store sales data is used by economists and policymakers to assess consumer confidence, housing market conditions, and broader economic activity.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Retail Sales: Hardware Stores data is released monthly with a short delay, and may be subject to revisions.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Hardware Stores (MRTSSM44413USN), retrieved from FRED.